Social ties linked
to longer life —
and a better one
This is another in a series of monthly reports on ‘Caring Comunities.’
By Alicia Colombo
For a community to be vibrant, it must reach across the generations.
What makes it good for young people, children and families also makes a community senior-friendly — a safe environment, well-maintained streets and sidewalks, nearby services and shopping areas, access to public transportation, affordable housing.
Beyond these, the human connections make a community — reaching across generations to connect and support one another. Close-knit communities provide safety and sociability, improving life for all.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that social ties are closely related to living longer, and that ties with close friends and relatives assume greater importance for those 60 and older. Another report, in the American Journal of Public Health, demonstrated that social connections delay memory loss among elderly Americans.
By taking a few simple steps, you can expand your “circle of care” within your neighborhood or faith community. Take some time to identify those you are close with or who live nearby. Think about ways to expand your circle to include people who attend your senior community center and house of worship, and people you regularly see at the market or local events. Don’t be shy! Introduce yourself.
Once you’ve identified some people you can connect with, make sure you have their contact information, including home addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses. If you store this in your address book, cell phone or on your computer, be sure to keep a copy for backup. Think of this new network as an extension of your circle of friends.
It is important to maintain these connections by calling and visiting on a regular basis. The Buddy System isn’t just for the schoolyard; it’s useful all throughout life. During emergencies, such as extreme weather and power outages, check in daily with older adults and people with disabilities.
By getting to know your neighbors, you will learn their strengths and also where you — or they — may need help. Use this information to create a task list of things each person needs assistance with. These may include changing light bulbs or batteries in smoke detectors, installing or removing screens and storm windows, cooking or shopping.
Everyone has skills and can contribute, based on their abilities. Homebound older people can make phone calls, read literature or newspaper articles, and coordinate tasks.
While you’re shopping, offer to pick up some extra groceries or supplies for an elderly neighbor who cannot get out.
And when it’s time to shovel snow or rake leaves, don’t stop at your property line. Do your neighbor’s yard or sidewalk, as well.
Many senior community centers and faith communities have “helping hands” or “neighbor to neighbor programs;” see if you can connect with one of them — or start your own. To locate the senior center nearest you, or to receive a free brochure Cultivating a Connected Caring Community, you may call the PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 or visit www.pcaCares.org.
If you have an interesting personal experience about your circle of care that you would like to share, please send it to Milestones, c/o PCA, 642 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number so we may contact you.